John Hoffman, Primus’ new drummer, has shared an emotional reflection about his life-changing journey in a heartfelt statement on Instagram.
His statement chronicles the remarkable transformation of his career following his successful Primus audition in January 2025.
‘Some days, I still cry when I think about my experiences in 2025,’ Hoffman revealed. ‘4 months ago today, January 22nd, I auditioned for Primus. When I think about all that has happened since January, what I’ve accomplished, the band I’m in, the people I’ve met, the places I’ve seen, and the absolute legends I’m on stage with every night…it still hits me hard.’
Hoffman recalled the humble beginning of his extraordinary journey before the audition.
‘January 21st I was sitting in a $60 hotel room in Sherman Oaks that had a broken heater. Getting ready for the biggest chance of my life. On that day, in that hotel room, I could have never predicted that in the next 4 months I would win the biggest public drum audition that has ever taken place, tour nationally and internationally playing arenas and amphitheaters with Primus, meet tons of celebrities, be on the cover of Modern Drummer Magazine, and share the stage nightly with Maynard James Keenan…among so many other things.’
Hoffman expressed his continued amazement at this career milestone with deep gratitude.
‘I’m still just absolutely floored by it all and more appreciative than words can express. I honestly don’t know of a real life story that has happened quite like mine. It’s a one of a kind ride and I’m just so unbelievably thankful that through thick and thin I was cast for this real life role of a lifetime.’
His remarkable journey to becoming Primus’ drummer emerged from an unprecedented audition process.
Modern Drummer reported that the 45-year-old drummer from Shreveport, Louisiana, earned his spot through the ‘Interstellar Drum Derby.’ The extensive open audition process drew over 6,200 submissions from drummers worldwide. The pool included performers who had previously worked with renowned artists like Beyoncé and Mars Volta.
The drumming position opened up after Tim ‘Herb’ Alexander’s unexpected retirement, Stereogum noted. Hoffman stood out from the competition with his distinctive style. He combines high-velocity flurries with deep funk and a unique cymbal technique.
Live For Live Music documented Hoffman’s debut with Primus at the Tool in the Sand festival in the Dominican Republic. He shared drumming duties with Tool’s Danny Carey at this milestone performance. The band has since launched their ‘Onward & Upward Summer Tour’ following a spring engagement with Sessanta Part 2.
The current tour highlights Hoffman’s deep appreciation for Primus’s extensive catalog. He has been performing full-length sets that include material not played in years, specifically chosen at his request.
